From the Arizona Trail Association: “The Arizona National Scenic Trail is a complete non-motorized path, stretching 800 diverse miles (1285km) across Arizona from Mexico to Utah. It links deserts, mountains, canyons, forests, history, communities and people.”

The AZT starts on the southern border of Arizona and Mexico, and makes its way to the northern border of Arizona and Utah. The trail was established relatively recently compared to the PCT and the AT. Many people complete it by hiking sections at different times. A through hike usually takes 6-8 weeks.

Although Arizona is known as a desert state, the trail goes through many diverse environments. It is also often at a high altitude, so snow can occur. A highlight at the northern end of the trail is a descent into the Grand Canyon and then an ascent to the northern rim and on to the Utah border.